The Otjinene constituency is one of the constituencies in the Omaheke region that for the last few years has been making remarkable progress in terms of development and economic advancement. Under the infrastructure development initiative, Otjinene availed land to the Build It company to house building materials for new construction projects in the town. The constituency also availed a plot for a shopping centre at Ozohambo informal settlement. During last week’s State of the Region Address, Omaheke regional governor Pijoo Nganate stated that a local company was allocated land for the construction of the shopping mall. Construction is anticipated to commence upon issuance of the clearance certificate. Nganate noted that the Puma service station in the village has received a facelift and a new Total service station also opened its doors in the town.
The governor further praised the constituency during his address, saying he remains confident that these developments will give Otjinene more economic advancements and improve many livelihoods through job creation.
“I hope that it will soon be declared a town along with Gobabis.”
Otjinene is the district capital of the Otjinene constituency, with about 7 400 inhabitants, and it is connected via a 157 kilometres tarred road to the regional capital of Gobabis.
“Otjinene continues to provide free water to more than 700 residents due to Covid-19. More than 300 plots have been availed to government employees in the village. That is a notable achievement for the Otjinene Village Council,” applauded the governor.
Speaking about infrastructure development in the region, Nganate added the Chief Hosea Kutako memorial museum and shrine, intended to memorialise the legacy of the late Chief at his homestead in the Aminius constituency, which will bring socio-economic development to the community in the region through employment creation and skills transfers.
The construction of phase one is comprised a museum, spiritual ritual hut, gathering place and restaurant, amongst others. The project also includes the upgrading of infrastructure around the homestead. Said Nganate: “The project currently employs 27 people during the initial phase, most of whom are from the region. Once completed, it will attract tourists. Some of the equipment is sourced from the region and this will benefit the local business community and will contribute to the regional economy”.
The groundbreaking for the memorial museum was officiated by President Hage Geingob in April 2021 in Toasis village, where he noted he realised the condition of the site was not befitting of the leader, teacher and elder after visiting the residence of the late Chief. - mndjavera@nepc.com.na